There is nothing that can be truly lost when we help others. Never be afraid of giving.
There are many ways that you can help other people. Financially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. As others have helped you over the years, and even if they haven’t, so should you help others. Don’t let fear hold you back, never be afraid of giving.
Helping Financially
Financial assistance is easy for some and not for others. Just remember that a little can go a long way. Sometimes a donation of as little as ten dollars can help. Imagine if everyone in your city gave ten dollars to a family in need. It would buy them groceries, needed clothing and help pay some overdue bills. Perhaps, if the city is large enough it would do that for multiple families who are struggling.
Too often people think that you have to give a lot of money but that is not always the case. Even buying some extra groceries and taking it to the food bank helps another in need. Quite often the grocery stores have ready-made bags and/or donation drop boxes, making it easy for you.
Helping Emotionally
Everybody needs somebody at one time or another. If you think about it you will know this is true. There are and will be, times in your life when you also need someone to be there for you. We all need that person to talk to, and sometimes, to vent to. We need to know that we are not alone in our struggles.
Sometimes, all it takes is making the time to sit with someone and listen to them. Help them ease their burdens by being an outlet for them in their time of need. Sometimes, all it takes is a hug or a smile.
Many people are struggling with isolation but there are still ways to help them. Phone calls, FaceTime and even the old methods such as sending a card or a letter. The key is to let them know they are not alone.
Helping Physically
If someone can’t do something that you are physically able to do then why not help them? This may cost you time or, it may not, depending on the situation.
If an elderly person or someone in isolation can’t get out to the store, ask them what they need. While you are there for yourself you can pick up their groceries, or other items of need. It doesn’t cost you all that much extra in time and you are doing a great service for another person.
Perhaps there is a single, or an elderly neighbour who can’t do certain things that you can. Offer to help them, better yet, just do it. They don’t even need to know who helped them but it will put a smile on their face and make their burdens easier.
Helping Intellectually
Many people think they have nothing to offer. The reality is that is not true. We all have a skill set of some kind that be shared. There are many places where volunteers are needed. Some to read to children, others teach your language (reading, writing) to newcomers, etc. By teaching people ‘how to’ do something that you know how to do you are doing a service, and a kindness, for another human being.
When we share our knowledge it reinforces what we know while at the same time helping another. Do not be afraid of being asked something you may not know, If you are asked and don’t know, find out. In this way you grow and learn too.
Whether you lead a group, offer advice on social media, or give classes to instruct others, make sure to share your knowledge. It is a gift not to be hoarded away, a talent meant to be shared.
There are many ways to give of yourself and they all don’t have to cost you money. So, what are you waiting for? Make that small donation, open that door, buy and/or carry those groceries, donate your time, share your knowledge. It will make you feel good and your light will shine brighter. Never be afraid of giving.
Free inspirational or motivational posts can be found on the inspirational page of my website.